On October 29, 2016 close to 100 community members and activist participated in a community forum to discuss Adverse Childhood Experiences and pathways to Resilience. The session was held at the new Skyline library at 7900 Paradise Valley Road.
The day began with the county of San Diego Department of Health Services designating San Diego Black Health Associates as A Live Well San Diego Partner.
The forum is the second of three forums to address information, reshape attitudes and stimulate change regarding Adverse Childhood experiences ACES) and Trauma informed care.
The speaker for this forum was Dr. Godwin Higa Principal of Cherokee Point Elementary School, discussed the implementation of trauma informed systems at his school and the involvement of teachers and parents in training. Cherokee Point Elementary has not expelled a student in four years, since the program began.
Dr. Cheryl Grills, past president of the National Association of Black Psychologists, shared information regarding African American history in the United states and aboard, and lead the group through an emotional emancipation circle, which was described by one participant as a “ transformative” experience.
The mission of San Diego Black Health Associates is to enhance the health status of African Americans in San Diego County through advocacy, education, outreach and professional development.
